What is the Hindu Swaminarayan sect, that forced the Eiffel Tower to close?

La VanguardiaIndependentProgressive4 hr. ago

The Eiffel Tower was closed on Monday due to a workers' strike over an incident involving the Hindu sect BAPS during their visit on Saturday. The group requested that female staff be removed from the premises during their visit, which led to the temporary closure of the tower. This decision sparked outrage among employees, resulting in a strike to prevent such occurrences in the future. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire later supported the affected women, condemning any actions against 'the values of the Republic.' BAPS, known for its strict religious practices, has ties to influential figures in India and recently opened its first temple in France near Disneyland Paris. The sect claims that its founder, Swaminarayan, is the supreme being, and its current guru, Mahant Swami Maharaj, oversees its activities.

Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights the misogynistic demands made by the BAPS sect, leading to the closure of the Eiffel Tower and subsequent worker strikes. It criticizes the accommodation of these demands by the local authorities and emphasizes support from political figures like the mayor of Paris. The tone谴责

La VanguardiaIndependentProgressive8 hr. ago

The Eiffel Tower has become embroiled in controversy after its employees went on strike, blocking access to the monument in protest against a visit by a conservative Hindu religious organization. The group, known as BAPS, reportedly requested that female staff members remain hidden during their visit. Workers claimed they were instructed to avoid certain areas, some were asked to leave their posts, and others were replaced by male colleagues. The workers accused the management of violating French laws on gender equality. The head of the Eiffel Tower’s operating society denied knowledge of the directive, while Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire called the protest 'legitimate' and emphasized the importance of gender equality in public spaces.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue through the lens of gender equality and highlights the protest as a legitimate expression of concern over discriminatory practices. It emphasizes the stance of progressive figures like the mayor and criticizes the religious group's actions, aligning with left-leaning pro